Looking to design in 2D or 3D without the cost of expensive software? Whether you’re an engineer, student, hobbyist, or educator, there are powerful freeware CAD tools that offer professional-grade features — completely free.
Here’s a comprehensive 2025 list of the best free CAD software, with platform info and official website links.
💻 Best Free CAD Software You Can Use Today
1. FreeCAD (Windows, macOS, Linux)
FreeCAD is a feature-rich, open-source parametric 3D modeler perfect for mechanical engineering, product design, and architecture.
Features:
- Parametric modeling
- Modular architecture (FEM, Path, Arch, etc.)
- Imports/exports: STEP, IGES, STL, DXF, and more
2. LibreCAD (Windows, macOS, Linux)
LibreCAD is an open-source 2D CAD application for creating technical drawings like floor plans, schematics, and mechanical parts.
Features:
- Lightweight and fast
- DXF support (import/export)
- Clean, beginner-friendly interface
3. Tinkercad (Browser-based)
Tinkercad is a simple web-based CAD platform by Autodesk. It’s ideal for education, 3D printing, and electronics simulations.
Features:
- Drag-and-drop modeling
- Circuit and Arduino simulation
- Perfect for schools and quick prototyping
4. OpenSCAD (Windows, macOS, Linux)
OpenSCAD uses code to create 3D models, offering extreme precision and customization — ideal for programmers and advanced users.
Features:
- Scripting-based parametric modeling
- Export to STL and other formats
- Great for automation and mathematical design
5. SolveSpace (Windows, macOS, Linux)
SolveSpace is a lightweight parametric 3D CAD tool used for mechanical design, kinematic simulation, and exporting files for CNC or 3D printing.
Features:
- Constraints-based sketching
- 2D and 3D modeling
- Exports: STL, STEP, DXF, G-code
6. LeoCAD (Windows, macOS, Linux)
LeoCAD is a LEGO-based CAD program for creating digital models. It supports the LDraw library of over 10,000 parts.
Features:
- Drag-and-drop LEGO part design
- Compatible with LDraw tools
- Good for STEM and educational use
7. BRL-CAD (Windows, macOS, Linux)
BRL-CAD is a powerful solid modeling system developed by the U.S. Army. It’s best for advanced geometric modeling and simulations.
Features:
- Precise solid geometry engine
- Ray tracing and rendering tools
- Command-line and GUI options
8. QCAD (Community Edition) (Windows, macOS, Linux)
QCAD is a robust 2D CAD system. The free Community Edition offers essential drafting tools suitable for architects and mechanical engineers.
Features:
- DXF-based drafting
- Clean and responsive UI
- Extendable with scripts
✅ Why Use Free CAD Software?
- 💰 Zero cost – No subscriptions or trials
- 🧠 Educational and open-source – Great for learning and development
- 💻 Cross-platform support – Most run on Windows, macOS, and Linux
- 🛠️ Practical functionality – From 2D plans to 3D engineering parts
Conclusion
You don’t need to pay for premium software to get professional CAD capabilities. With tools like FreeCAD, LibreCAD, SolveSpace, and OpenSCAD, you can design everything from detailed technical drawings to 3D mechanical parts — all for free.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.